Testimonials

"The Unwind yoga and surf retreat in Ecuador was a unique blend of deep relaxation, fun vacation vibes, and profound healing, all held within the safety of a sweet, comforting community in a beautiful and truly inspiring place. Each day was organically and loosely structured in a way that felt perfect for everyone. As a group, we made decisions about the timing of yoga, breathwork, a sweat lodge, surf lessons, cliff walks, tide pool excursions, and more, allowing for plenty of spaciousness for both solitude and connection. Melanie’s healing offerings felt like a sacred journey through the chakras and the elements, connecting us to our surroundings, to each other, and inwardly to ourselves. Right on the ocean, the setting gently drew us into alignment with the natural rhythms of sunrise and sunset, high tide and low tide. Our dear hosts, Peter and Maija, were also present and engaged whenever they could, helping create a warm, family-like atmosphere that included the sweet staff as well. I felt deeply cared for, nurtured, and nourished. The food was fresh, healthy, and incredible. The freedom to eat at any time of day was such a treat. There was so much big belly laughter and joy at meals and afternoon card games! I returned home feeling refreshed, with a more open, flowy outlook, and even a new tattoo to remind me of the profound healing that comes through deep relaxation. I look forward to returning next year and feel so much appreciation and love for Melanie, Evan, Peter, and Maija for making this retreat possible...with the sincerest gratitude for Melanie, whose heart-centered guidance and sacred presence wove this entire experience together so beautifully. I’m also in awe of the beautiful humans who came together in Canoa to co-create such a magical time."

-Vina K 26'

 

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"Canoa is such a beautiful place. Melanie’s retreat in Canoa is truly a retreat from the hectic day to day world. I spent many hours doing absolutely nothing and it was incredible. This retreat gives you the space with small amounts of structure everyday that is totally optional. I had space and time to really sit with myself and had some huge breakthroughs personally. I owe that to the space and time I was given with no pressure. I was able to just “be”. I love being able to order food (that is so good) from the restaurant whenever I felt like it. The staff at the Canoa Suites are extremely friendly and accommodating. The waves are insanely fun as well. Being able to not see another soul while surfing is such a gift! Melanie holds such a sweet and nurturing space with the yoga daily and breathwork journey. I can’t speak highly enough about this time spent here. I will continue to make the trek out to Canoa as long as Melanie keeps hosting this retreat!"

-Valerie D 26' (and 25')

 

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"Attending the Unwind Retreat in Ecuador this past March was a sacred return to self. It was everything my soul needed — refreshing, restoring, renewing. From the moment we arrived, we were held in a container of love, reverence, and intentionality.

 

Set on the magical shores of Canoa, this retreat was pure soul medicine. The land itself is a living blessing — a hidden sanctuary where the ocean meets spirit. Every detail felt divinely aligned, from the rhythm of the waves to the warmth of the rooms and the vibrant healing energy of the space. Pete and Maija, the heart-centered owners of Canoa Suites, poured so much love into our experience. Their sacred presence, beautiful hospitality, and delicious nourishing meals created the perfect setting for healing, joy, and connection.

 

And at the heart of it all was Melanie — a true matriarch of sacred space. She holds the container like a mother: soft yet strong, nurturing yet free, present yet never imposing. She intuitively knows when to hold you close and when to give you room to expand. Whether guiding us through breath and movement, laughing with us over dinner, or quietly sitting by the sea — Melanie is grace in human form. She embodies safety, joy, wisdom, and unconditional presence.

 

Michelle brought her own radiant medicine — the gift of art, intuition, and deep presence. Her creativity is sacred. The art she shares is more than visual — it’s energetic, intentional, healing. I was deeply honored to receive a hand-poked sacred symbol from her — a permanent imprint of this journey etched into my skin and soul. Every line held prayer, every dot held love. Her work is ceremony.

 

And Evan, our incredible surf guide, was the heartbeat of the ocean. His divine masculine energy, lighthearted spirit, and genuine kindness made every surf session feel safe, fun, and free. Whether riding the waves or playing games with us in the evening, Evan brought a sense of play, family, and warmth that added joy to every moment.

 

Each night, we gathered like tribe — sharing meals, laughing with the children, playing games under the stars. These moments wove us together like family, reminding us that healing lives in the simple joys too.

 

I left Ecuador feeling rested, realigned, reawakened — with an open heart, a nourished body, and a soul touched by grace. This retreat wasn’t just a getaway — it was a homecoming. A remembering. A sacred pause that turned into sacred movement.

 

If you are being called to reconnect, to unwind, and to be embraced by a soulful, loving community in one of the most beautiful places on Earth — this retreat is your invitation."

 

🌺 With deep love and eternal gratitude,

Baheya Aysheh 25'

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